Explore the top modern architectural marvels with fun facts about some of the most innovative structures ever built.

1. 4 of the World’s Most Amazing
Architectural Wonders
by: Kenny Slaught

2. When it comes to historic man-made landmarks, the Seven Wonders of the World
immediately come to mind. Structures like Stonehenge and the Great Pyramid of
Giza are instantly recognizable and have inspired awe and attracted tourists for
centuries. Architecture is always evolving, however, and with the advent of modern
building methods, the past 50 years have seen the construction of some of the most
innovative buildings ever created. Keep reading to learn more about four of world’s
most impressive modern-day architectural wonders.

3. The Burj Khalifa - Dubai, UAE
First on the list is the Burj Khalifa, located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Hailed
as the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa stands 2,716.5 feet tall (828
meters) and features three observation decks that are available for tours
throughout the year. The Burj Khalifa observation decks have also made history
in their own right by securing a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as
the highest observation decks in the world. Each tour of the skyscraper is an
experience that not only provides high-altitude thrills and dizzying views, but also
educates tourists about the history of the structure and its intricate design
details.
The architecture of the Burj Khalifa is credited to the prominent Chicago design
firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP in collaboration with a talented team of
design partners. The massive structure took approximately six years from
excavation to completion, and it stands as a true testament to just how much
work and passion is necessary to create such a breathtaking building.

4. The Sydney Opera House - Sydney,
Australia
No list of modern architectural wonders would be complete without mentioning the
world-famous Sydney Opera House. Officially opened in 1973, the Sydney Opera
house has hosted some of the world’s most famous performers, from classical tenor
Andrea Bocelli to modern pop icon Beyoncé. Situated on the Sydney Harbor, the
Sydney Opera House is instantly recognizable and can be seen for miles. It is one of
the world’s most iconic buildings and is easily identified by its dramatic fin-like roof,
which appears to rise from the surrounding water.
Sitting on approximately 11 acres of land, the Sydney Opera House seats more than
5,700 people in several different concert halls that host performances of music, dance,
theater, opera, and many other forms of art. Tours are offered in seven different
languages to accommodate visitors from all over the world. The Sydney Opera house
was the product of Danish architect Jørn Utzon’s ingenuity and took nearly 20 years
to come to fruition—but the result was clearly well worth the wait.

5. Torso Tower - Malmö, Sweden
Not all architectural wonders are public places or tourist attractions that host
hundreds of thousands of visitors per year. Instead, the 623-foot Torso Tower
functions as a residential and commercial complex. The stunning structure truly
lives up to its name as it stands out among the much smaller surrounding buildings
with its height and unique shape, which appears to be moving in a spiraling motion
when viewed from a distance. Although the building is completely stationary, the
tower seems to rise from the ground, turning at an angle.
Designed by award-winning architect Santiago Calatrava Valls, the Torso Tower
officially opened in 2005 and was inspired by the architect's own sculpture titled
“Twisting Torso.” Each unit in the building was designed to offer unique and
breathtaking views of the surrounding city of Malmö. The Torso Tower houses more
than 140 luxury apartments with the remaining space reserved for offices and top-
floor meeting rooms. Although it is not officially a tourist attraction, visitors to the
area are often seen photographing the distinctive structure. Image courtesy user beth on Flickr

6. The National Centre for Performing Arts - Mumbai, India
The National Centre for Performing Arts is a spectacular seaside entertainment complex located in
Mumbai, India. Often referred to simply as NCPA, the structure has been a landmark in the area
since its original opening in 1969. Since then, the NCPA has expanded and several theaters have
been added to the complex over the years. The structure of the NCPA stands out thanks to its eye-
catching, modern exterior and classic interior. An impressively ornate grand foyer constructed of
white marble greets visitors upon entry to the huge venue, which comprises more than 340,000
square feet of space.
The NCPA boasts five separate performing arts theaters with a combined seating capacity that
accommodates thousands. A world-renowned art gallery is also a standout of the facility. In
addition to its impressive venues inside, the NCPA is home to four gorgeous outdoor gardens
featuring lush foliage and views of the sea. These outdoor spaces are often booked for events such
as wedding ceremonies, receptions, and smaller performances, as they offer a beautiful backdrop
to any event.
There’s no doubt that the landmarks on this list are impressive, but they represent only a few
examples of the truly amazing architecture that can be seen in cities all around the globe.
Image courtesy user Stuti Sakhalkaron Flickr